How do you know if your thermometer is accurate?
Insert the thermometer stem or probe 2″ into the center of the ice bath and stir gently for another 15 seconds, keeping the stem surrounded by the ice cubes and moving constantly. An accurate thermometer will read 32°F. Don’t let the thermometer rest against the ice or you’ll get a low reading.
How do you know if a thermometer is not working?
For digital thermometers:
Test every six months or so (depending on frequency of use) to make sure the thermometer works properly, using either the ice water or boiling water method. Many digital thermometers have reset buttons. If the accuracy is off, adjust the thermometer to the proper temperature using this button.
How do you test a digital thermometer?
Using a digital thermometer
- Clean the tip with cold water and soap, then rinse it.
- Turn the thermometer on.
- Put the tip under your tongue, towards the back of your mouth.
- Close your lips around the thermometer.
- Wait until it beeps or flashes.
- Check the temperature on the display.
How do I check my thermometer?
Fill a large glass or measuring cup with ice, then pour cold water over it and stir well. Stick your thermometer into the center of the glass so the tip of the probe is submerged by about two inches. Hold it there for about a minute, making sure it stays in the center, and then check the temperature.
How do you check a temperature without a thermometer?
Checking for a fever without a thermometer
- Touching the forehead. Touching a person’s forehead with the back of the hand is a common method of telling whether or not they have a fever.
- Pinching the hand.
- Looking for flushing in the cheeks.
- Checking urine color.
- Looking for other symptoms.